Personal Genetics: Power to the People or Buyer Beware?

February 12 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Personal Genetics: Power to the People or Buyer Beware?

February 12, 2019

***THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO SNOW***

The field of genetics has advanced so rapidly that it’s no longer necessary to go to the doctor for a basic mapping of your DNA. With less than $100 and a simple swab you can be tested for specific diseases, learn your genetic makeup, and see your family tree. We’re all curious to understand where we came from and what we’re made up of! However, this easy access to information doesn’t mean the quality of the data and interpretation of results can be trusted. There are consequences (unintended or otherwise) and potential harms in personal genetics testing for health that need to be examined now that test results are as close as your mailbox.

What does the trend of personal genetics mean for you? We’ll discuss:
– How did personal genetic testing became so mainstream?
– What is the role of my doctor now?
– Can I trust these test results?
– Who owns my data?

Please note this session is not a discussion about gene research, nor will counsel be given for personal genetic results.

Join Civic Series to answer these questions and yours during our panel. This event will start at 6:15pm with a 30-minute presentation by Boston University Professor Catharine Wang, followed by a 30-minute Q&A with the audience. Following the event, there will be an opportunity for networking with attendees.